2019 Ram 1500 Cabin Air Filter Location: Your Complete Replacement Guide

Finding and replacing the cabin air filter in your 2019 Ram 1500 is straightforward. The filter is consistently located behind the glove box on the passenger side. Accessing it requires removing a few screws securing the glove box door. This essential maintenance task significantly improves your vehicle's interior air quality, especially important for drivers with allergies or sensitivities. Performing this swap yourself saves money and takes approximately 10-20 minutes with basic tools. Knowing precisely where the 2019 Ram 1500 cabin air filter sits empowers you to breathe cleaner air every trip.

Your Comfort and Health Start Here
The cabin air filter is your vehicle's frontline defense against airborne pollutants entering the passenger compartment. It traps dust, pollen, soot, road debris, mold spores, and other particulates generated by the outside environment and your vehicle's own systems. Over time, typically every 15,000 to 25,000 miles or annually (whichever comes first), this filter becomes clogged. A dirty filter reduces airflow through your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This manifests as weaker airflow from vents, unpleasant musty odors during operation, and increased accumulation of dust on interior surfaces. Regularly replacing the filter, as detailed in this guide, ensures your HVAC system operates efficiently, delivering optimal airflow and maintaining healthier, fresher air quality inside your truck cabin.

Safety First: Prepare Properly
Always prioritize safety when performing any vehicle maintenance task. Begin by securely parking your 2019 Ram 1500 on a flat, level surface. Engage the parking brake firmly to prevent unintended movement. Place wheel chocks behind the rear tires for an extra layer of security, especially if working on even a slight incline. Turn the engine off completely and remove the ignition key or ensure the key fob is outside the vehicle to eliminate any risk of electrical systems activating during the procedure. Allow your engine and exhaust system sufficient time to cool down if the vehicle has been running recently. While replacing the cabin air filter itself involves minimal hazard, following these fundamental safety precautions sets the correct mindset and creates a safe working environment.

Essential Tools You'll Need
Replacing your cabin air filter requires minimal tools and components:

  1. Replacement Cabin Air Filter: Ensure you purchase the correct filter specifically designed for the 2019 Ram 1500 (and model, e.g., Classic or DT if applicable). Confirm the part number matches your truck using the references listed below. Not all filters labeled for 1500s fit every 2019 model year due to platform changes; double-check compatibility. Having the new filter ready before starting avoids delays.
  2. Screwdriver (Phillips Head #2): This is the primary tool needed to remove the screws holding the glove box assembly in place. A #2 Phillips size is standard for this application.
  3. Waste Container: Have a trash bin nearby to immediately dispose of the old, dirty filter after removal. This prevents debris from spreading within your truck.
  4. Gloves (Recommended, but Optional): Wearing work gloves protects your hands from accumulated dust on the old filter and potential sharp edges inside the housing.
  5. Flashlight (Recommended, but Optional): A headlamp or flashlight helps illuminate the sometimes dark filter compartment for easier visibility.

Precise Filter Fitment: Locate Your Correct Part
Ensuring you purchase the exact replacement filter is critical for proper operation and fitment. The 2019 Ram 1500 saw a major redesign ("DT" platform) alongside the continued sale of the previous generation ("Classic" or "DS" platform). The cabin air filter location remains similar between the two (behind glove box), but the specific filter size and design differ significantly. Cross-reference your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) through the manufacturer's website, a trusted parts store database, or your truck's manual to definitively identify the required filter. Popular aftermarket brands offering compatible filters include FRAM, Purolator, WIX, K&N, and Mopar (OEM). Confirm the filter dimensions match – common sizes for 2019 models are approximately 9.5” x 8.25” x 1” or 10” x 8.25” x 1”. Selecting the wrong filter prevents proper installation, potentially allowing unfiltered air to bypass or causing rattles. Taking a minute to verify the part number saves significant hassle later.

Access Route: The Glove Box Removal Process
Reaching the 2019 Ram 1500 cabin air filter requires temporarily removing the glove box assembly. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Glove Box: Begin by opening the glove box door as you normally would to access its contents. Push the sides inward slightly to clear the stops and lower the door fully.
  2. Locate Glove Box Door Screws: Examine the sides of the lowered glove box assembly. On both the right and left inner walls, you will find Phillips head screws securing the glove box assembly to the dashboard structure. Typically, there are screws located near the top and bottom sections of each side panel.
  3. Remove the Screws: Using your #2 Phillips screwdriver, carefully remove all identified screws (usually 4-6 screws total – verify you've found all holding points before proceeding). Place the screws in a secure location where they won't roll away or get lost (a small cup or magnetic tray is ideal).
  4. Detach Glove Box Assembly: With all screws removed, carefully pull the entire glove box assembly slightly towards the passenger seat. It is usually connected to the dash by a damper/stop cable on the right-hand side. Locate the plastic clip where this cable attaches to the glove box. Gently squeeze the clip and pull the cable end free. Once disconnected, you can fully lower or carefully set the glove box assembly aside. Avoid putting strain on any wiring that may remain attached.
  5. Locate the Filter Housing: With the glove box assembly removed, look directly towards the back wall of the dash cavity. You will see a rectangular, usually white or gray, plastic housing designed to hold the cabin air filter. Its long side runs vertically. This housing has a prominent lid covering its front side (the side now facing you).

Filter Compartment Access Point
The cabin air filter resides inside the rectangular housing you just uncovered. Follow this procedure:

  1. Locate Housing Access Points: Identify the clips or retaining mechanisms securing the front lid of the plastic filter housing. This lid is essential for maintaining a proper seal. Common designs include:
    • Top/Bottom Squeeze Clips: Look for tabs on the top and bottom edges of the lid. Squeezing these tabs inwards releases their grip on the housing.
    • Side Squeeze Clips: Similar concept, but tabs may be located on the left and right sides instead.
    • Center Tab: Sometimes a single locking tab resides in the center of the lid's top edge that needs pushing inwards or down to release.
  2. Release the Housing Lid: Depress or manipulate the lid's retaining clips as required to unlock it. Avoid using excessive force. Once the clips disengage, carefully remove the entire lid. Set it aside in a safe spot.
  3. Identify the Filter Direction: Crucially, before removing anything, observe the old filter already sitting vertically inside the housing. Note the specific direction of the airflow arrows or "AIR FLOW" text printed on its frame. This arrow indicates the correct installation direction for the new filter. Use your phone to take a picture if necessary to remember the orientation.
  4. Remove the Old Filter: Gently grasp the exposed end of the old filter and slide it straight out of the housing towards you. Be prepared for loose dust or debris; keep the waste container handy. Inspect the filter housing cavity for significant dirt accumulation while the filter is out. Use a damp cloth sparingly to clean large debris; avoid introducing liquids into electrical components. Allow it to dry completely if necessary before proceeding.

Installation Step: Fitting the New Filter Correctly
Installing the new filter with proper airflow direction is critical for HVAC function and filtration efficiency:

  1. Confirm Airflow Direction: Retrieve your new filter. Identify the arrows printed on its frame indicating the correct direction of airflow. Verify this orientation aligns with the direction noted on the old filter or your reference photo. For the 2019 Ram 1500, airflow arrows on the cabin air filter almost universally point DOWN towards the cabin floor. This allows outside air entering through the cowl vents to flow down through the filter media. Installing it upside down (arrows pointing up) restricts airflow and decreases performance.
  2. Insert the New Filter: Aligning the airflow arrows pointing DOWN towards the floor, gently slide the new filter vertically into the housing cavity. Slide it all the way back until it seats fully at the rear of the housing. Ensure it sits flush and flat within the slot without any gaps at the edges. Do not force or crumple the filter.
  3. Confirm Fit and Seal: Double-check that the filter is fully inserted along its entire length and that the airflow arrows clearly point downward. The filter should fit snugly within the housing without excessive gaps allowing air to bypass the filter media.

Reassembly Procedure: Securing the Housing and Glove Box
Once the new filter is correctly seated:

  1. Replace the Housing Lid: Carefully align the filter housing lid back onto its frame above the cavity. Press firmly and evenly around all edges, especially over the clip locations, until you hear or feel all retaining clips snap securely back into their locked positions. Tug gently to confirm it's firmly attached.
  2. Reconnect Glove Box Assembly: Lift the glove box assembly back into position within the dashboard cavity. Start by carefully reattaching the damper/stop cable clip on the right-hand side (locate the tab on the side of the glove box structure and press the clip onto it securely).
  3. Align Screw Holes: Ensure the glove box assembly is correctly aligned with the screw holes in the dashboard support structure on both sides.
  4. Replace All Screws: Retrieve your screws and using the #2 Phillips screwdriver, firmly tighten each screw back into its original hole. Do not overtighten to avoid stripping the plastic threads. Confirm all removed screws are reinstalled for proper support.

Verification and System Test
The final step involves testing your work and confirming normal HVAC operation:

  1. Cycle Glove Box: Open and close the glove box door several times. It should operate smoothly, latch correctly, and return to its fully upright position without sagging or unusual resistance. If reconnecting the damper cable was needed, ensure full opening and smooth closing.
  2. Test HVAC Settings: Turn your truck's ignition to the "ON" position or start the engine. Set the HVAC system fan speed to its maximum setting. Cycle through all modes (Defrost, Vent, Floor, Bi-Level). Notice if airflow feels stronger than before, especially at lower fan speeds. Listen carefully in the glovebox area for any unusual whistling, rattling, or air bypass noises that might indicate a poor seal or the filter not fully seated. A properly sealed system should be relatively quiet in that area, just the sound of strong airflow.
  3. Final Walk-Around: Confirm you've retrieved all tools and the old filter from inside the vehicle. Dispose of the old filter responsibly.

Recommended Maintenance Schedule
Maintaining your cabin air filter protects your HVAC system and your in-cabin air quality. For the 2019 Ram 1500, Ram typically recommends replacement every 15,000 miles under "normal" driving conditions. Significantly shorten this interval if you drive in these conditions:

  • Heavy Stop-and-Go Traffic: Pollutants build up around congested roads.
  • Dusty or Unpaved Roads: Sand, dirt, and high particulate matter drastically accelerate filter clogging.
  • Industrial Areas: High concentrations of airborne particles and chemical pollutants necessitate more frequent changes.
  • High Pollen/Allergy Seasons: Seasonal spikes in pollen levels quickly saturate the filter.
  • Musty Smells: Any unpleasant odors emanating from vents, particularly when the A/C is running, are a direct sign the filter (and potentially evaporator core) needs attention.

Adhering to these guidelines, or replacing the filter at least annually, ensures consistent performance. Note the date/mileage when replaced to track future maintenance. Marking the next due date on your windshield with a service reminder sticker can be a helpful reminder.

Potential Issues & Solutions
Despite the straightforward nature of this task, a few issues may occasionally arise:

  • Inability to Locate Screws/Housing: Consult your 2019 Ram 1500 owner's manual; the location diagram provides visual confirmation. Alternatively, reputable online forums dedicated to Ram trucks or YouTube channels featuring professional mechanics often offer accurate walk-through videos specific to your model year. Review carefully to identify where you might have overlooked an access point.
  • Glove Box Damper Cable Difficult to Reconnect: Cable connections can sometimes be tricky. Take a moment to study the clip design visually before detaching it. Ensure you reconnect it correctly, typically by pressing the cable end straight onto the receiving tab on the glove box side wall. A bright flashlight aids visibility. Persistence and small adjustments usually resolve this.
  • Lid Doesn't Fully Snap Back On: Double-check that the new filter is fully pushed back into the housing and aligned correctly. Verify no part of the filter edge or frame is obstructing the lid's path. Make sure you're engaging the correct clips – listen for distinct clicks. If the filter seems bulky, ensure it's for the correct platform (DT vs. Classic) and compare it with the old filter's dimensions.
  • Noise or Weak Airflow Persists: If issues continue after replacement, ensure the filter airflow arrows definitively point DOWN. Remove and reinstall to confirm full and correct seating without gaps. If rattling occurs, the filter housing lid might not be fully locked. Double-check all clips. Persistent airflow issues unrelated to a new filter may require investigation by a qualified technician for potential HVAC system problems (clogged cowl vents, blower motor resistor, faulty mode door).

Performing this simple maintenance provides tangible benefits for comfort, health, and HVAC efficiency. Locating and changing the cabin air filter yourself empowers you to maintain your 2019 Ram 1500 to high standards, breathe easier with confidence on every drive, and keep your truck's interior environment clean and pleasant.

Back to blog